While we could all use little more wisdom, most of us don’t use our wisdom teeth. Unlike the rest of your permanent teeth, which usually appear between the ages of 6 and 13, wisdom teeth don’t usually grow in until between the ages of 17 and 25.

A third set of molars, wisdom teeth grow in at the very back of your mouth, behind all the other teeth. There are four wisdom teeth, one on each side of the mouth on both your upper and lower set of teeth.

There are many reasons why your dentist might suggest a wisdom teeth extraction.

First, because they are so far back in your mouth, they may become impacted in your jawbone or gums. Wisdom teeth may also grow in at a bad angle. Another reason is that many people’s mouths are simply too small for another set of teeth. And, finally, wisdom teeth can be difficult to reach and keep clean, so gums can be inflamed, and cavities can form.

To learn more about your wisdom teeth, ask your dentist or hygienist when you visit us here at My Dental Care in Lindsay, Ontario.